Saqifah Bani Saidah

The historical site of Saqifah Bani Sa'idah has been preserved and is located within the courtyard of Masjid al-Nabawi. This sacred location, once an open shaded area, is now part of one of the holiest mosques in Islam, where pilgrims and visitors can reflect on the pivotal moments that unfolded here.

The Saqifah Bani Sa'idah is a historically significant location. According to Al-Azhari, the term "saqifah" refers to any covered structure that provides shelter, typically found near a well or open gathering area. In the context of early Islamic history, this particular saqifah, known as Saqifah Bani Sa'idah, played a crucial role as the gathering place where the pledge of allegiance was given to Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) as the first caliph.

However, before this famous incident, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) is recorded as visiting this location, as we find in the hadith narrated by Sahl, (may Allah be pleased with him), he said:

"On that day, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, came and sat in the Saqifah of Bani Sa'idah with his companions. Then he said, 'Give us something to drink, O Sahl.' So I brought this cup to them and gave them drink from it. Sahl then brought out that cup for us, and we drank from it.... [Al-Bukhari]

The Bani Sa'idah tribe had this saqifah near the house of Sa'd ibn Ubadah, a prominent leader of the Ansar. According to Al-Samhudi, on the day of the pledge, many of the Ansar gathered near Sa'd, who was ill, to discuss the leadership after the passing of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The location was convenient, close to the well of Buda’ah and the residence of the Bani Sa'idah tribe.

Sa'd ibn Ubadah famously expressed, “A leader from among us and a leader from among you,” indicating the Ansar’s intention to have a share in the new leadership. Following a thoughtful exchange, Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) was the first to give his pledge to Abu Bakr, an act that prompted others present to follow. This moment at Saqifah Bani Sa'idah marked the beginning of Abu Bakr's caliphate and laid the foundation for Islamic governance following the Prophet's passing.

This gathering at the Saqifah of Bani Sa'idah remains an important event in the history of Islam, symbolizing the unity and collaboration between the Muhajirun and the Ansar, and the establishment of leadership that would guide the Muslim community forward.